What are tramadol withdrawal symptoms?

Dependence on tramadol symptoms can vary from restlessness to abdominal discomfort to seizure. Learn what are tramadol withdrawal symptoms, how long they last and how they can be treated here. Plus, a section at the end for your questions about tramadol.

Why do Tramadol withdrawal symptoms occur?

The biggest reason withdrawal symptoms occur when you stop taking tramadol is because tramadol is part of the opiate family. Although tramadol is technically an opioid (a man made opiate), it acts like an opiate on the brain and central nervous system. Opiates have a naturally high dependency rate and people taking forms of this drug become physically dependent on tramadol relatively quickly. These reasons affect how tramadol is prescribed and for how long.

Because of this high dependency rate, withdrawal is likely to occur in anyone who gradually comes off tramadol as well as those who suddenly decide to stop taking tramadol. Withdrawal symptoms are more likely for people who choose to go off of tramadol suddenly or who stop taking tramadol cold turkey. However, it is interesting to note that tramadol is one of the safest opioids that doctors prescribe and comes with a lower risk of developing tramadol drug addiction.

What are symptoms of Tramadol withdrawal?

There are two types of Tramadol withdrawal symptoms: typical opioid withdrawal symptoms and atypical opioid withdrawal symptoms. The first set of withdrawal symptoms for tramadol are typical of opioid drugs which result in flu-like symptoms such as restlessness and tramadol cravings. It has been reported that this first type of withdrawal shows up in about 90 percent of the population who are taking Tramadol. The second set of tramadol withdrawal symptoms is considered rather atypical but nevertheless occurs in about 10 percent of the population. Such symptoms include; hallucinations, paranoia, extreme anxiety, panic attacks, confusion and numbness and tingling in the limbs.

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Other symptoms of tramadol withdrawal may include the following:

abdominal distress

dysphoria (unease or dissatisfaction with life)

insomnia

muscle cramps

restlessness

seizures

Serotonin syndrome

sweating

trouble sleeping

Tramadol withdrawal symptoms: How long?

How long the symptoms of tramadol withdrawal last varies by person. Those who stop using tramadol can expect to feel the effects of the withdrawal up to at least 24 hours after the last time they took tramadol. This is the most likely timeline. In other cases, however, it has been said that tramadol withdrawal can take several days before acute symptoms dissipate. Those who have developed a dependency with tramadol have a harder time, as withdrawal symptoms can linger and be more intense.

Tramadol withdrawal symptoms treatment

One of the key ways to treat withdrawal symptoms of tramadol is to first slowly reduce medication intake and taper off tramadol while also supporting symptomatic reactions to the withdrawal. It is important to be careful with over the counter and prescription medications used to help with the symptoms and that they do not interact negatively with the tramadol. Avoiding the use of alcohol and other drug are important for not only inhibiting dependency but also to alleviate potential withdrawal symptoms. Slow tapering helps with anxiety and restlessness. However, all cases of tramadol withdrawal should be supervised by a medical professional.

Tramadol withdrawal symptoms questions

Do you still have questions about withdrawing from tramadol? Please leave us your tramadol questions below. We are happy to respond to you personally, and will try to answer your questions ASAP. And if we don’t know the answer, we will refer you to someone who does.

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74 Responses to “What are tramadol withdrawal symptoms?”

Jane

4:28 am March 7th, 2013

Have taken 14 to 16 50 mg tablets of Tramadol for about 5 1/2 months for post concussion headache. Headaches are better and so I tapered down to 9 last week. Today I decided I just wanted to stop to see how bad my headaches really are so I haven’t taken any since yesterday morning. I feel horrible. Shooting pains in my head and legs, lower back and shoulder pain, irritable, restless, and my teeth even hurt. How long will this last? Debated on tapering more slowly but I just want to be off the meds to see if I really need it for pain and if my continued lack of diminished cognitive function is the Tramadol or from the TBI. Suggestions?

Hi Mario. How long have you been taking tramadol? And how frequently? IF you’ve been dosing on tramadol daily or multiple times per day for more than a few weeks, it’s possible that you have been experiencing withdrawal. But short term or sporadic use of tramadol should not cause withdrawal symptoms. What does your prescribing doctor say?

diana taylor

3:39 pm June 6th, 2013

i have been on this med for over 12 years doctor just started me on cymbalta and told me to stop the tramadol i do feel awfull but i strated the nes med the same day i stoped the tramadol so how long will i feel bad ?

Hello c.harrelson. You’ll need to set up a customized tapering schedule with your prescribing doctor when coming off tramadol. Medical supervision helps prevent extreme withdrawal effects such as seizures and hallucinations and it’s very important that you taper slowly over time. Seek medical counsel with your prescribing physician for help.

Tina

3:43 pm July 31st, 2013

Hi I am needing help was on tramadol and pregablin for 7 months due to back problems, I was on 400mg tramadol and max dose pregablin, I had an op in may this year, my doctor said i could come streight off both with no issues, so at the end of may i came off both and 2 months later I am still suffering depression, anxiety, no motivation, nervousness, seperation anxiety. I am 36 years old. Is this normal please as I feel like I’m going mad.

Hello Tina. It’s possible that you are experiencing PAWS, or protracted withdrawal symptoms…which can last for weeks or months after acute withdrawal. I’d suggest that you record your symptoms on a daily calendar, rate their discomfort level, and report back to your original prescribing doctor in 1-2 weeks. Anti-depressant or anti-anxiety medication may be applicable and may be prescribed in your case.

Vickie Still

8:21 pm August 19th, 2013

I have generalized degenerative joint disease. My knees are very painful and my left shoulder is bone on bone. I have been taking tramadol (375mg. till 6-2011, then 50mg.4-5 times per day. Suddenly it’s a narcotic and my income dropped, along with being dropped from health insurance. I took the last Tramadol 5 days ago, early in the am. The next day I woke up with a sore throat and feeling generally yucky. Day after that I am running a low grade fever, & when I went down to sleep I experienced restless leg syndrome in my whole body. Slept about 7 hours in 72. No appetite, anxious, head and eyes hurt. I generally felt like I had the flu. I haven’t left my house in a couple of months so no exposure to flu. I might add I have been taking Celexa for anxiety since June 2007, when my son was killed. I ran out of it at the same time. I have no money to go back to the Dr. and get refills. Would appreciate your opinion on whether or not this illness has been do to withdrawal from one or both these med.s

Hello Vickie. The symptoms that you report seem consistent with tramadol withdrawal symptoms: generally like a really bad flu. The symptoms should resolve in 7-10 days, but if you continue to feel poorly, I’d suggest a visit to your doctor.

Hovik

12:21 am November 5th, 2013

Can Tramadol cause watery eyes?

Bettie

6:55 pm November 5th, 2013

I went through cold turkey withdrawal from 150mg daily of Tramadol. Bad, but no serotonin syndrome. Now I need more pain med for arthritis. Started with 50mg daily PRN. But I find now, after several weeks, that when I don’t take a pill, I have diarrhea and chills in less than 24 hours. What do I do? If I take it regularly twice a day, will that stop the withdrawal or require more the two pills eventually to keep the withdrawal under control? Tylenol is not sufficient. I can’t take any more NSAIDS due to my stomach.

Hello Bettie. I’d suggest that you consult with your prescribing physician on getting the dosage right. Or speak with your pharmacist for more information.

Hovik

4:04 am December 28th, 2013

I do not take Tramadol everyday and when I take it is 2-3 50 per day. My eyes water heavily every morning and by noon I am back to normal. We also have a cat that shades badly. Could Tramadol be my problem? Thanks

Sicklee

3:37 am January 28th, 2014

I am now taking 4 50mg tramadol daily. How much less should I take and when, if I want to taper slowly and how long should I wait before I go down more. Also, will my body adjust to the decrease or will I be in pain with flu-like smptoms the entire time? What can I take to help ease the smptoms?,

Sicklee

1:58 am January 29th, 2014

I am so sick from these little white devil pills !! I can’t move … my body aches all over !! I feel like I have a horrible flu How long am I going to feel like this ?? If I’m sick like this anyway wouldn’t it just be better to quit cold turkey and get it over with ? If I’m going to suffer anyway. I thought tapering would help me not have major withdrawal symptoms ?? This is BRUTAL :(((

Brenda

8:07 am January 31st, 2014

Hi,i stopped the devil pills 20 days ago,after being down to 3 a day,after 5yrs of use, you will feel awful,i took myself off to bed having strong epsom salts baths every day body brushing, nibbled on bananas,made smoothies after a few days with fruit, veg,nuts,oats , coconut oil,etc.doctor gave me diazepam for the leg twitching,sleeping tablets for 10days, 3days ago started with hourly palpatations so am now on betablockers, has anyone else experienced this,its rubbish,!

Mary Ann

1:11 pm March 16th, 2014

I have been taking Tramadol since my knee replacement surgery 3 weeks ago. I took 100 mg. twice a day for two weeks then only 50 mg twice a day for one week for pain during rehab exercises. I stopped it entirely on Friday night. By Saturday I felt tired, lightheaded and could not sleep for most of the night due to strange restlessness that kept me sitting up and moving around. That stopped during the night, and I finally did sleep but it was awf’ul while it lasted. Today is Sunday. I feel better, but can I expect that to return tonight or is the worst over?

Hello Mary Ann. Short term use of tramadol and dependence usually resolves in under 72 hours; best of luck to you, but make a record of continuing symptoms if they persist and schedule an appointment with you prescribing doctor.

joe mad

11:21 pm June 20th, 2014

I have been taking tramadol for 3 years for arthritis in neck / back / both knees ( too young for replacement ) / both shoulders and both hands ! sever pain has been treated with injections 2 to each hand , both shoulders and thumbs , I was told this would be my last prescribed tramadol , as the ‘guidelines’ have changed and 28 days is the new max ! Q 1 . what’s is the exit strategy ? Q 2 . is there an alternative ? Q 3. I will not be able to work , where does that leave me ? both during the withdrawal and living in such pain day to day ?

vali

6:02 am July 1st, 2014

Tramadol withdrawal is awful! I have been on and off this drug for chronic pain for the past 4 years. You cannot go off this drug cold turkey if you have taken it for a long time and/or at a high dose. It can actually be harmful to your health and safety causing seizures etc. Protocol to tapper off is to reduce 25ml a day. This will give mild withdrawal symptoms but totally tolerable. 25ml every two days should go without any discomfort. Good luck!

Nancy

5:14 pm July 2nd, 2014

I seem to be having withdrawal symptoms from Tramadol even though I only took 100mg 4x a day for 3 weeks after ankle surgery. My doctor said I could stop cold turkey and there would be no withdrawal symptoms since I took it such a short amount of time. I didn’t believe him and I slowly decreased the dose from 400 mg per day to 100 in 5 days. Then I had diarrhea, headache, loss of appetite, restless legs. I’ve taken 100 mg for 2 days and tomorrow will take 50 mg. for a couple days and then 0. Is there anything I can do to help with these symptoms?

Hi Nancy. Quitting tramadol cold turkey is not recommended. Your doctor probably thought you wouldn’t go through withdrawal because you were on the meds for a short time. Still, it’s enough time for the body to become accustomed to the presence of tramadol, develop dependence, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms is an expected outcome. So, what you’re doing by tapering is the right thing to do. What you’re feeling is normal, and some symptoms you can’t avoid even with tapering. If you are able to move and if doing exercises is recommended by your doctor, try and stay as busy as you can.

Angus

11:28 pm July 6th, 2014

April 24th I had a meniscus repair and was prescribed oxycodone. Then had hip resurfacing on May 14th and was prescribed oxycodone and tramidol. I got off of the oxy 4weeks after the May 14th surgery….and continued on the tramidol for 2 more weeks- 2 (50mg) 3x day. And was fine off the oxy. Then tried to stop the tramidol cold turkey (huge mistake). From then on I started tapering. For the first week I took 1 (50mg) 3x day then the following week took 1 (50mg) 2x day. The took 1 every 24hrs for 2 day then I stopped. I was ok for about 24-30 hours after then I was miserable. It will be 2 weeks this Tuesday July 8th. My symptoms have included hot/cold sweats, headaches, diarrhea, insomnia, restless leg and severe anxiety. At this point, I am most affected by the anxiety as well as insomnia which may or may not be from the RLS (as I have that symptom too). I’ve taken several things to help. One evening I tried Xanax. Then I tried melatonin. Then Benadryl. Cannot remember if I’ve tried the Soma that I have…. Also saw my doctor and was prescribed ambien, which helped me sleep a little but I am sleep deprived! And don’t want to become dependent on that. How long will this last? What can help? I’m willing to try anything.

Laurel

1:00 pm July 13th, 2014

I have been on tramadol for 6 years without consulting a doctor. I would usually take no more than 5 50 mg tablets a day. I usually have to take at least 2 tablets a day without experiencing withdrawal. What is the best way to gradually come off this? Should I take 2/ 50 mg for two days and then every two days reduce it by 25 or 50 mg? Or should I reduce the tramadol over a longer period? For instance, is it recommended that I reduce the medication every 5 days? I don’t want to feel severe withdrawal symptoms because this will just prompt me to continuing taking them.

This is a horrible drug. I have massive hair loss. Every time I try to get off it I just cry and cry and cry.. In fact, I was originally subscribed this after a major car accident that killed my husband. I noticed right away that not only did it relieve physical pain, but it elevated my moods. I continued to take it after I found I could get it from other sources because it made everything feel better in my life. It has always been difficult for me to stop because I have a job and children and no help with them. It’s mainly the cranky and irritable feelings that my kids don’t understand. I get horrible cranky, sleepless, restless leg syndrome, extremely depressed, sweaty, irritable, diarrhea, flu like symptoms, lethargy. This is the worst drug!

I just need to know the best way to stop this drug without having severe withdrawal symptoms. And I refuse to go to a doctor.

diane

9:50 am July 14th, 2014

I took 100 mg og Tramadol for 45 days. The last gew days i only took 100mg/ day. Will I go thru withdrawl?

Betty Stapleton

5:27 pm July 15th, 2014

I am having bouts of sneezing and abdominal and severe back pain my last dose was half of a 50 MG yesterday how bad will it get

T. Williams

5:28 pm July 17th, 2014

My brother took several Tramadol over the course of a week or so, before he knew what they were. Originally, he had been told they were cannabis pills, but due to my nosiness I found out otherwise. I googled the markings on the pills only to find out that one was Tramadol and the other Vicodin. He immediately asked me to flush them. It has been 2 days since that happened and he’s still somewhat confused, has a loss of appetite and sweats a lot. Are these withdrawal symptoms? And how long should they last? Is there any way to help flush this out of his system?

sue

2:45 pm July 18th, 2014

Hi, I’ve been taking tramodol for 3 yrs now. When I had my breast off I asked the doc if I could come off them, he said “no”. But, I got no pain now; I ran out of tramadol on tues and since then I have been feeling dizzy and just yuki. My husband says is it cause I haven’t been taking them. Is it a side effect? Can you help please! I got them now but don’t want to take them…

Amy

5:43 pm July 20th, 2014

After being on Tramadol for about 6-8months for back pain I decided to get off of it because I wanted to try and get pregnant and I knew you couldn’t take it while pregnant. Little did I know it was going to be SO horrible. I had cold sweats, would go from being extremely hot then freezing, horrible restless leg and body, sneezing, nausea, anxious feeling, shaking, i was soooo sleepy but couldn’t sleep for the life of me. I was up for about 40hours with about 2 hours of sleep. I’m now on my 3rd day of this horrible detox and can finally lay down without feeling completely antsy. I will NEVER take this horrible drug again. To anyone else that is looking to get off plan it when you can have time off, warm bath soaks help and it also helped me to get out of the house and go spend the day with a friend to get my mind off this horrible withdrawal. I’m hoping within the next couple days my symptoms will be over.

Alexi

10:05 pm July 23rd, 2014

Hi… I am 26 years old. I’ve been taking Tromadols for almost 3 years now. Before I never had take. A pill other than Tylenol. I feel like I am depending on this drug everyday. I don’t feel normal without it. I would take two in the morning, to help me with my day with the children, cooking, cleaning, shopping. If I don’t… I feel like I can’t get out of bed. I can’t cook, stand very long. My EVERYTHING hurts! And I take two at night. If I don’t… I won’t be able to sleep. I honestly hate it. I never knew other people felt the same as I do because my sister has taken them longer than I have and she could stop and go without them without a problem. I can not without body pains. And I am a different peson without. I am mean to my fiancé, to my children and I just want to feel normal without having to take a Tromadol. And it has to be some other way other than just hot baths and showers and dealing with this pain. I don’t do drugs and I don’t drink. I don’t want to feel like I have no control over my life. It’s not as easy as people make it seem. I want help with this withdraws! It has to be some other way… Please someone help!

Jan

2:38 am July 26th, 2014

I weaned off tramadol for 6 wks. I took it for back/knee pain for 10 yrs and the highest dose I ever took was 3 1/2 once a day at night. I am now completely off tramadol and have been for 7 days now. The MAIN problem I have is the terrible tingling, restless sensation in my arms at night when trying to sleep which is unbearable. I manage maybe 2-3 hrs sleep at night. How long will this sensation last?

Sue

8:32 pm July 27th, 2014

I have been taking this drug for a relatively short period of time, 6-8 weeks. I have been cold turkey off it now for 5 days and feel yuck! I am irritable, tired as can be, lathargic and unmotivated. I have the worst restlessness at night, cannot sleep and I sweat terribly through out the day. I was taking 150-200 mgs per day. Had I known it would be so hard to stop, I would have never used this stuff! How much longer can I expect to be so uncomfortable?

Eileen

8:28 am August 9th, 2014

I have been on slow release Tramodol for 5yrs and have just started Butrans patches. My Tramadol has just stopped suddenly and the withdrawal symptoms are horrendous. I was awake most of the night with restless arms and the same sensation in my chest. I had severe cramping in my legs and my usual pain was much much worse than normal. In the end I took a Tramadol and topped up on my other pain meds. What I want to know is how to wean myself of the Tramodol as going cold turkey is unbearable

Hello Eileen. I’d suggest you talk to your prescribing doctor and have him create a tapering schedule or prescribe some other meds that can help you with the withdrawal symptoms. If your doctor suggests you need to quit Tramadol cold turkey because of medicine interactions, maybe he can give you some other advise on how to alternatively manage withdrawals.

jenna

4:51 pm August 11th, 2014

I stopped taking my tramadol Saturday night at 730. Its now Monday at noon and I have only experienced restless legs can’t sleep and depression bad. I have to go back to work Thursday and am scared that none of the real nasty stuff has kicked in yet and don’t know why vomit ting diareahah etc Is it gonna happen Wednesday night when I’ve been off these since sunday. 50 mg eight times a day.

janet

6:31 am August 13th, 2014

What is the best way to taper off of Tramadol. I have only been taking taking it for about a week and a half, and my blood pressure is going up and I am having trouble with headaches and migraines. I am migraine prone anyway. The Tramadol was prescribed for my arthritis (Osteo) and it is widespread and we have tried everthing. This really helps the pain, but the blood pressure going up is not good and may signal serotonin syndrome.

Rosemary Cawley

11:58 am August 27th, 2014

I have been reducing Tramadol for approx 7 weeks now. I was taking 100mg twice a day for 10 years. Yesterday I stopped the morning 50mg altogether so only taking 50mg at night now. Today I feel really unwell bad head aches and as I have COPD coughing more? Hoping things pick up soon.

Jonathan Taff

12:13 pm August 27th, 2014

I’ve reduced my tramadol intake from 400mg SR per day for over 18 months for a neuro condition (IIH) to 50mg SR per day, I have my wedding in 3 weeks, is it safe to come off completely at 50mg SR a day or is the next step every other day?

Hayley

4:55 pm September 1st, 2014

I’ve been taking 3 tramadol a day for the last 3 months for back and neck pain. I felt like I was becoming reliant it on because when I was due or overdue one I felt so sore and tired, until I took one again. I discussed with my GP and she said to just go cold turkey. I took my last one friday lunchtime. I have felt terrible all weekend. Physical symptoms such as aching, cold sweats, fatigue, cold/flu symptoms, sleepless nights etc. Its now Monday and I have had to come home from work. I haven’t stopped crying all day, I feel very emotional and anxious. I’m not normally like this and know it must be withdrawal but I cant carry on feeling like this, it’s literally put my life on stand still. I’m not sure what to do or how long I will be in pain?

Jonathan

4:58 am September 4th, 2014

I’m starting to taper off tramadol after taking it for at least a year. Before and during that time I was taking hydrocon. I had this very involved surgery and I fear that my situation has not improved. I’m either filling really excited and ecstatic or incredibly depressed. I don’t know if this attributed to the tramadol or if I’m just discouraged because I’ve been in pain for the past five years.

Clare

8:07 pm September 25th, 2014

I have spinal degeneration from L1-L5 and take tramadol 200 extended release twice a day. To be honest it only takes the edge off. I am in pain whenever I move but I would like to know what I could ask my doctor to transfer me to, which will take the pain away. I dislike tramadol as I have been on them before and when I came off them I experienced terrifying withdrawal symptoms.

Frank

9:39 am October 25th, 2014

I am 70 years old and strong but have tapered down from morphine medical use to another opiate givin here in Thailand called pedidine (an opiate) to methidone prescribed by a psychiatrist to now codine and tramadol. I have heard of some new drugs that help immensely. Can you help ?

Hi Frank. You want to quit codeine and tramadol? What do you need new drugs to help you with?

D

11:24 pm November 12th, 2014

I have never had such a horrifying time the last 22 days coming off achohol and 400+ mg tremadol. I still sweat, no sleep, can’t work. I am 57 and age and how long I’ve been taking this is extremely hard to get better. I stopped cold turkey. When will I feel better? This is soo hard.

Hello D. If you are going cold turkey off tramadol, doctors recommend doing so through detox. If you add quitting alcohol in the same picture it’s scary. I can’t even imagine what you’re going through, but I know that you need medical help to relieve the symptoms. I don’t know exactly how long it will last, but it takes time for the body and brain to repair and get back to normal.

Ahmed

6:45 am December 16th, 2014

Now in withdrawal stage , insomnia , restless leg syndrome : I will try the following for leg restlessness : ropinirole 0.25 mg , with diazepam 5mg or any antihistamine that may ease this horrible feeling that make me walk in the room , previously I had many seizure while using large doses 400 mg at once , even i used inject able one , one of my many seizure due to this drug , i falled of the stair hit my head on floor , got injured bled and my scalp stitched

Nikki91

4:24 pm December 20th, 2014

I’ve been takin tramidol for about 2months now, they are not prescribed to me and no one no’s I have been takin them, I take them mainly at night time to sleep. Now if I don’t take them I’m restless, I’m even cryin because I can’t sleep I just figit and find myself gettin frustrated. I’m itchy aswell. I can’t go to my doctor because my axioty won’t let me, I find it hard to talk about thingz and I find it even harder to go out and I’m struggerling so bad please can anyone help

Bob

5:12 am December 26th, 2014

Does everyone have withdrawal side effects when they stop tramadol?

Buffy

3:19 am January 28th, 2015

I’ve been taking tremadol for a back pain..I’ve taken this medication as prescribed for a month then my second refill I doubled my dosage…which was 2 50mg pills 4 times a day…I’ve just ran out yesterday and now I’m feeling like my weak plus a lot of sneezing…and minor aches all over my body..maybe nauseated through out the day…when will all this stop? I’ve been only on it for 2 1/2 months…I need help?

Hi Buffy. I know it doesn’t seem like much time, but two and a half months are far more than enough for a person to become dependent on Tramadol. The symptoms you are experiencing are withdrawals. You can go to the pharmacy and ask for some over-the-counter medications to treat the symptoms.

pam

6:55 pm February 22nd, 2015

I am sweating so bad and no sleep…. tapered off tramadol quit taking remeron and tapering off kingpin and in a misery with night sweats…help!!!

Samantha

4:33 pm March 13th, 2015

Hi,Ive been compleatly off Tramadol for 12 days after today, I weened down very slow from 300 mg daily down to 1/4 th a 50 mg tab daily, then just stopped, Sadness and depression started in right away when i decreased and also the withdraws but were tolerable..but for the last 12 days i have felt just awfulle, week, tired, achy, and the sadness is overwhelming most of the time, i still get RLS at night but have found things that help with that,…how long till i feel normal again…im normally happy and full of life…im being sucked away. Im worried to get on depression meds bc of potential dependency, i fear medication now and don’t trust Dr.s any more, How much longer can i expect this to go one ..its been 12 days compleatly off..shouldn’t i start feeling normal by now ???

Pat

3:32 pm March 15th, 2015

I have recently stopped taking tramadol after about 8 years – I was taking approximately 15-18 50 mg per day. (3 days ago now). I did have a few vicodin so I did take those over the past days but now I don’t even have that. So far withdrawals mostly have been insomnia, shakiness, sweating, feeling anxious. I did get some over the counter sleep medication that seemed to help a little- I have slept a total of about 7 or 8 hours over the last three nights- restless legs is a problem too. I really need some advice as to what to do now

Ho Pat. You should have asked for doctor’s help in the process of quitting Tramadol. Giving this medicine up is not an easy job. The best way to treat tramadol withdrawal is to taper tramadol use over time. It’s generally done by reducing 10% of your current dose every week and then a 20% reduction every 3 to 5 days. To treat the withdrawal symptoms that you are currently experiencing, it’s best to seek help and advise for your medical physician, who can prescribe antidepressants (SSRI’s).

Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen or paracetamol can help with pain along with other NSAIDs (non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). You can also use temporary sleep aids and muscle relaxers that can help take care of the cramping caused by tramadol withdrawal. Flu and cold medication can also help treat general tramadol withdrawal symptoms.

Best of luck Pat! I hope these tips help you. Stay strong and it will be all over soon.

Tony

5:59 pm March 17th, 2015

ive decided to days ago to stop taking tram I’ve been on them about two years but I only took one a day and one at night but I feel I’ve got addicted to them since I’ve stop taking them I can’t sleep and wen I wake up about 5 in the mornings I feel afrade and fel mentaly confused and just av to get up as I can’t go back to sleep as I just think about silly things in my sleep that dnt make since. I also keep having rush feelings as if I’ve come down from speed.

Hi Tony. Go to the nearest pharmacy or have someone else pick up some over-the-counter medications that can help you sleep and relax. If symptoms get more uncomfortable, you should go to your doctor. Otherwise, it will all be over soon.

makarizo

6:09 am March 24th, 2015

I’ve went cold turkey off ultram a few times. I decide I don’t want to be dependent on meds but the pain gets me back in the pain management system. I had a car accident and 3 subsequent spinal surgeries. One doc also put me on percosets. The withdrawals from the percs were HELLISH and I was on them for a short time. I remember thinking oxycodone is the essence of satan himself. The ultram withdrawals are nothing, a day or two maybe. The last time i bought some kratom and took them after i went off the ultram and it was easy breezy. After being on and off these meds for years i can tell you a secret that will help. Some of these were told to me by a nurse who deals with detox and some is just experience. When you take pain killers never take them at the same time, only when you have pain and try to skip days if possible. So you are staggering them and the body doesn’t freak out when it doesn’t get its 8 o clock or 12 o clock dose etc. A lot of times the doc tells you to take them at regular times but don’t and don’t go cold turkey if possible. Save a dozen or so in a different location for going down to one a day, then half, then a quarter. Also you will hear that if you go cold turkey last a while and take just one again then your symptoms start all over. This is just stupid and not true. You can bite one in half if you feel sick or experience symptoms and it helps. When withdrawals come back it will be less severe and shortened. This actually how you want to do it. Drink tons of water. Keep in mind the pain you experience when you go off opiates is not what it will be from that day on; right after you stop taking them you experience rebound pain It subsides after a 3-7 days. Most importantly, don’t expect the worst. Stay positive because Ultram withdrawals aren’t that bad and among the easiest to go off of. Oxy’s are a different story.

Barbara

2:13 am May 18th, 2015

My biggest problem with withdrawal is a constant dry cough a tickle in my throat. my ribs hurt from coughing so constantly. Does anyone have this symptom?

Larry

8:22 pm May 19th, 2015

I have used tramadol for one month and never more than 2 days in a row. Can I just stop? Never took more than the 400 mg limit and have not had any problems on my days without. I prefer Alleve. Thanks!

Greta

2:20 pm May 22nd, 2015

I have been on tramadol 300 mg a day for 5 weeks, I reduced this to 150 mg for the last week and have not taken any for 2 days but I am nauseated, have been sick and had diarrhoea since stopping taking the drug. I have had 2 major spinal operations in the 5 weeks, but I am not in any pain. Is this a normal cold turkey and how long will it last?

Hi Greta. The symptoms you describe do sound like withdrawal. If you do get any pain sensations, you can use ibuprofen, acetaminophen or paracetamol to help along with other NSAIDs (non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Get lots of fluids into your body to replenish (diarrhea and sweating can get you dehydrated) your system. Eat foods that are easy to digest and aren’t spicy or going to upset your stomach. Foods that can help give you the energy and help support your body health are best. Stay at home and get the rest and sleep that you need since withdrawal feels like the flu. I hope this can help you, and Good luck!

Isabel

7:40 pm June 14th, 2015

hi, I’ve came off tramadol as I’ve been on them for a number of yrs now and they did help my lower back pain but my neck was seizing up due to spondylitis and they never touched that pain, doctor gave me gabapentin for neck which helped ..ie didn’t want to be taking all they mess together reason for coming off Tramadol. I’ve never felt so unwell in my 63 yrs of life this is now my this course of antibiotics as well as steroids as my breathing has become very shallow and very breathe less I’m on two minds to go back on them , can someone advise please. Thank you in advance

Rosen

1:26 am June 26th, 2015

Hi! I have taken tradol for over 7 years. I do not get a full months supply (2 weeks every 4) so I go through withdrawal for the two weeks. However, I have been having mini fits when I try and sleep. Agonising stomach pains too. Is this normal? Should I talk to the doctor about this? Many thanks!

Hi Rosen. Without seeing a doctor the issues is left undiagnosed and untreated. Only when a doctor runs tests and examines you, you can know what is causing your unusual symptoms.

Sc

2:27 pm June 28th, 2015

I’m wondering if I may be experiencing protracted withdrawals from short term use. I took 250 mg a day at one dose for about ten days. Today is the 11th day since last dose. I woke up this morning w chills and a headache. I started celexa back yesterday as I just can’t seem to handle anxiety and depression too well. Came off it for 7 months but just feel I need to be back on it. Should I wait on the celexa?

Hi Sc. I believe it’s best to take this question to your prescribing doctor. You may need another type of treatment to help you cope with the anxiety and depression.

Hugh

5:29 am July 17th, 2015

Iv been takeing 15 tramadoll tablets 50mg daily the withdrawals are unbareable the worst of it is the insomnia and restlessness n I get a feeling in my stomach that’s like I’m being tickled and can’t seem to relax !!! Is there any tips to battle this

Bobby

6:58 am July 25th, 2015

I’ve been taking tramadol for around 2 to 3 months but only taking one or two a day 50 mg I can’t sleep how long can this last of going through these withdrawals anexity tired but can sleep I’m stressed out what else can I take to help thanx hope to hear back asap.

yvonne

2:23 pm July 25th, 2015

I was taking 1 tramadol at night because of back pain and after 1week I was so spaced out and couldn’t keep awake they were 50 mg I stopped them and I feel worse now after taking them . I can’t concentrate I’m tired bad stomach . While I was taking them I had terrific nightmares . How long will I feel like this

Kathleen L. Friend

11:26 am July 26th, 2015

I have been trying to come off Tramadol for several weeks by reducing the dose from 50 mg 4 times a day to 3 1/2 for a week then 3 a day for a week and I am now at 1/2 twice a day and am having a devil of a time sleeping and dealing with ringing ears and mostly affected by RLS and numb/tingling shooting pains in my feet. I’ve been tested negative for Diabetes and thyroid issues so I’ve wondered if it is caused by coming off this drug. Sweating and nightmares still occur. Is there anything I can do to help get me through this better? I do not take any other drugs. I’m 70 and female. Perhaps something healthy to enhance serotonin? Thank you.

Hello - I'm on day 8 of taking either one 5-325 or 7.5-325 percocet every 3-4 hours. Once in a while...

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